One of the truly great jazz clubs in the world. Started in late 1959 by saxophonist Ronnie Scott, the club has hosted all the great jazz players. Our first visit here was in the late 1970s, after a long session at the late-lamented Brahms and Liszt wine bar at 18-20 Russell Street, Covent Garden. A frequent stop for us in London in those days. It was cleared away for a bit of culture – the shopping bit of the Royal Opera House development. Now the RoH is great, but the B&L…well, the clue’s in the name. The internet being a fine thing, we can bring you the Environmental Study of Covent Garden which identified the changes arising from the new RoH development.

Turn up for an evening’s jazz or make a night of it and eat as well – the staff are great at serving through the performances in a very discreet way. Good food [simple standards but very tasty], beer and wine…and the music. Oh the music. Even if you’re not a jazz fan the house band are great, but there is always a busy programme of international jazz performers – book early for the best seats. We last saw the Kyle Eastwood band – a low key start, but an amazing finish. Fabulous.

Jazz Club Ronnie Scott’s

For a simpler experience, but without the international names, try the Pizza Express Jazz Nights at the Soho branch.

The atmosphere…

Kyle Eastwood – acoustic and electric bass

Kyle Eastwood and his dad